(Newser)
–
Boston won its seventh straight game, 116-93, over a tired Chicago team last night to retain its three-game lead in the Eastern Conference. This one was never in doubt as the Celtics built a 20-point halftime lead and were able to rest their starters in the fourth quarter. Paul Pierce scored 22 points while Kevin Garnett added 16 points, 8 rebounds. Also in hoops:

Golden State took advantage of Miami's having only seven players available, playing an up-tempo style and posting a 134-99 blowout of the league's worst team. Stephen Jackson led the barrage with 22 points.

Samuel Dalembert, with 22 points, led seven Philly players in double figures scoring in a 117-83 thrashing of Seattle. The Sixers have won 11 of 14.